Torque Limiting Apparatus with Adjustable Cam Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for limiting torque delivery to an output shaft, such as during wheel mounting operations, lack precision and consistency in securing threaded fasteners, leading to inefficiencies in bolting structures together.
Innovation Solution
A torque limiting apparatus with a spring-based mechanism that adjusts compressive force through a length adjustable shank and collar assembly, utilizing cam surfaces and a coil spring to maintain engagement until a preset torque is exceeded, at which point the cam surfaces separate, disengaging to prevent over-tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a spring-based mechanism with cam surfaces is used to limit torque delivery, then torque control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiting apparatus is divided into distinct functional segments: cam surfaces for torque sensing, spring for force storage, and clutch mechanism for engagement/disengagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element between the cam surfaces and the clutch mechanism, converting the cam surface separation force into controlled compressive force that can be adjusted to match specific torque requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a length adjustable shank and collar assembly is used to adjust spring compression, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable shank and collar assembly allows pre-adjustment of spring compression before operation. This preliminary setup enables the same apparatus to adapt to different torque requirements without requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable mechanism transforms a single torque-limiting device into a universal tool that can accommodate multiple torque settings, replacing the need for multiple fixed-setting apparatus.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides precise control over torque delivery, ensuring that threaded fasteners are securely tightened without exceeding a set torque limit, thereby preventing damage and ensuring structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The cam surfaces cooperate to generate separation forces between the respective rotating end segments
Implementation Method 2
The spring is configured to oppose the separation forces generated by the cam surfaces, and is configured to urge together the first end segment and the second end segment to remain in rotating coupled engagement
Implementation Method 3
The length adjustable shank and collar assembly is provided between the spring and the housing and is configured to adjust compressive force on the spring to change torque output of the apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A torque limiting apparatus is provided having an input shaft, an output shaft, a housing, a spring, and a length adjustable shank and collar assembly. The input shaft communicates with a rotating end segment having a cam surface. The output shaft communicates with a rotating end segment having a complementary cam surface for engaging with the cam surface of the input shaft. The cam surfaces cooperate to generate separation forces between the respective rotating end segments. The spring is configured to oppose the separation forces generated by the cam surfaces, and is configured to urge together the first end segment and the second end segment to remain in rotating coupled engagement. The length adjustable shank and collar assembly is provided between the spring and the housing and is configured to adjust compressive force on the spring to change torque output of the apparatus. A method is also provided.